Burke schools get needed updates

Credit: Jennifer Frew | The News Herald

The roof at East Burke High is partially finished with new roofing on Thursday. The new 'green' roofing at four Burke County Public Schools this year is white. The Duro-Last roofing system is a reflective, energy efficient renovation for East Burke and Freedom high schools and George Hildebrand and Valdese elementary schools.

By: Jennifer Frew | Morganton News Herald
Published: July 23, 2009

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Renovations and improvements are underway at several Burke County public schools this summer, with extensive projects at East Burke and Freedom high schools.
The BCPS maintenance department is working with several contractors.
At Freedom and East Burke, the two older high schools, which were built on the same design more than 35 years ago, science classrooms are being completely revamped.
The once cluster of five science classrooms will become four up-to-date science labs and two computer labs. The media center at each school — located on the lower level, below the science labs — will receive new ceilings and floors. The projects include new plumbing, electrical, paint and computer technology. The design was a collaborative effort with administrators, teachers and architects, said Tony Cox, BCPS assistant superintendent of Auxiliary Services and Construction.
D.H. Griffin, in Hildebran, contracted for demolition and asbestos removal. David E. Looper Construction, in Hickory, contracted for the construction and renovations. The projects at both schools combined will cost $2 million.
Both high schools are also receiving new "green" roofing for energy efficiency. Joe Bond, of Bond/Tec Roofing, in Wilkesboro, is installing Duro-Last roofing material. The white, durable sheets are highly reflective. George Hildebrand Elementary and Valdese Elementary will receive the same roofing.
Liberty Middle received a new HVAC system this week.
Burke County students head back to school on Aug. 25. Many of the projects will be complete before then. The science labs are expected to be finished and ready for students to use after the Christmas break.

Burke schools get needed updates

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